The Nigeria Nature Photography Awards (NNPA) officially launched today, establishing a new national platform dedicated to celebrating the country's rich biodiversity through the art of photography. Founded by Oluwasooto Ajayi, the awards aim to raise awareness of Nigeria's wildlife, landscapes, and natural heritage while recognizing photographers whose work inspires appreciation for the natural world.
Mission and Vision
"Nigeria is incredibly rich in biodiversity, yet much of it is not widely seen or understood," said Ajayi. "This initiative is about changing that by using photography to deepen appreciation for our natural environment while celebrating the photographers who help tell that story." The inaugural edition invites photographers across Nigeria, from emerging talents to seasoned professionals, to submit compelling images capturing wildlife, landscapes, and human–nature connections.
Goals of the Initiative
Through photography and storytelling, the initiative seeks to foster greater public awareness of biodiversity, encourage pride in Nigeria's natural heritage, and highlight the importance of conservation. To recognize excellence, the competition will award cash prizes to winning photographers, while a selection of outstanding entries will be featured in a curated public exhibition later in the year.
Partners and Support
The awards are being delivered in collaboration with several organizations committed to conservation, storytelling, and public engagement. Ninthgrid, an Afrocentric stock image platform, is supporting the development and implementation of the initiative, contributing its expertise in African visual storytelling and digital content platforms.
"We are excited to collaborate on a project that amplifies African visual storytelling while highlighting the beauty and importance of Nigeria's natural environment," said Francis Odeyemi, CEO of Ninthgrid. "This initiative aligns strongly with our mission to elevate authentic African imagery and create opportunities for photographers across the continent."
The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) is serving as conservation partner, providing technical expertise and guidance to ensure the initiative contributes meaningfully to biodiversity awareness efforts. "This is a timely and important initiative," said Mr. Kunle Olawoyin, Director, Communications, Policy & Advocacy at NCF. "By showcasing Nigeria's wildlife and ecosystems through photography, the awards can inspire greater public appreciation for nature and encourage collective action to protect our natural heritage."
Wild Africa is supporting the initiative as media partner, helping amplify stories that promote the protection of wildlife and wild spaces across the continent. "Wild Africa has been working to promote the protection of wildlife and wild spaces across Africa," said Festus Iyorah, Nigeria Representative for Wild Africa. "This initiative brings that mission to life in a powerful way by engaging photographers and the public in celebrating Nigeria's natural heritage."
How to Participate
Photographers interested in participating can learn more about eligibility requirements, submission guidelines, and competition deadlines at www.nigerianaturephotographyawards.com.
